The Best Game World Ever Created?

Oblivion was definitely jaw-dropping, from the the graphics and sheer scope of the game. After exiting the sewers and realiziing just how large the world is, the game presents an amazing experience. I also loved Monster Hunter Tri, even though it was smaller than Unite, there was enough variety that you could walk around the city passing dozens of players and rarely see the same equipment set. The amount of variety in players appearance made it feel like you were actually playing with other unique people, not just cookie-cutter characters.

Mass Effect for me. All the background, info, etc. is just amazing.

I think the topic should be named "Best Game Universe" because I consider the game world to be just the playing environment and not the characters. Here are my favorites for both.

Best Game Worlds: Just Cause 2 and S.T.A.L.K.E.R.

Best Game Universe: Final Fantasy VII, Halo